Writing is a fantastic way to let your imagination go wild! But, for authors, there's a clinical side to it when it comes to editing your work. In life, it is often helpful to observe a situation without judgement and then proceed mindfully. This means to act on the facts in a thoughtful way. As an author weaves their fiction, they too must become a mindful observer. Difficult choices about what stays and what's edited out must be made.

When creating a novel, remember to stay true to your characters throughout the story. If you're building a cowardly person, you must put them in situations where they act afraid. Never assume a reader will know what's in your head. Always provide enough details for scenes to make sense. And, never write something out of context just because it sounds good. A player will not be shivering in the cold if the scene is set on a balmy day. This seems straightforward, but in the passion of writing it's amazing what might flow through. Just like in life, when emotions run high, we can easily say things out of context.

If you're writing for fun, let your imagination go everywhere. If you're writing for publication, take a critical look at what you've put down and be certain characters are accurately developed and behaviors are congruent with personalities and surroundings. When you learn to edit out passages you once loved, be proud you can take the criticism.